Former Around the Horn host Charlie Pelton is retiring from the show after 22 years, citing declining ratings and a shift in tone towards negativity. However, Pelton claims that it was ESPN who made the decision to cancel his appearances on the program, not the network itself.
Pelton, a sports editor during SportsDay’s heyday, joined Around the Horn in 2002, becoming one of the show’s longest-running contributors with over 2,100 appearances. Despite initial struggles as a TV personality, Pelton eventually found his footing and developed a unique rapport with co-hosts Woody Paige, Bob Ryan, Jay Mariotti, and Max Kellerman.
However, in recent years, Pelton has expressed concerns about the show’s tone shifting towards negativity and lack of humor. He believes that ESPN’s focus on more polarized opinions and sensationalism has led to a decline in audience engagement.
Pelton, who turned 70 last month, plans to retire from television after his final appearance on Around the Horn this Friday. Despite this, he remains grateful for the opportunities he received during his time at SportsDay and ESPN.
Source: https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/cowboys/2025/05/23/tim-cowlishaw-goes-around-the-horn-one-final-time-as-beloved-espn-studio-show-signs-off